St Vincent’s nurses with expertise in caring for stroke patients will perform the assessments. Risk factors will be emphasized and lifestyle recommendations and counseling to help reduce risks will be offered. A physician will also be available to answer any questions and educate participants about the newest treatment and testing for stroke.

The stroke screening, which should take about 15 minutes, will include a carotid or circulation evaluation, a blood pressure and pulse rate check, the completion of a questionnaire to record the individual’s health history, and a short video on warning signs of stroke. At the end of the screening, participants will be given a copy of their assessment.

Healthy refreshments and stroke education materials will be provided, and no appointments are necessary.

Every 45 seconds, someone in the United States suffers a stroke. Stroke is the leading cause of death among Americans.

St Vincent’s Medical Center was designated a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) in 2006. The certification recognizes the ability of St Vincent’s to provide rapid, effective treatment that improves stroke patients’ chances of recovery.